Concrete Playground

In a post-apocalyptic world, ruined by the scientific hubris of mankind, only a small contingent of machines remains: those that wrought the destruction, and a handful of handmade dolls cowering in the ruins. The appeal of Shane Acker’s gothic tale to producer Tim Burton is obvious; visually and thematically, the two are on common ground, and for the most part this makes for intriguing viewing.

However, despite the provocative premise and the beautifully rendered world, 9 feels largely derivative. Alongside the sparse and clunky dialogue (voiced by Elijah Wood, John. C. Reilly, Jennifer Connelly and Christopher Plummer), there are Jurassic Park style thrills, Star Wars spirits and a Harry Potter Horcrux thrown in for good measure. Knowing this film is an extension of Acker’s Academy Award nominated short only underscores the narrative holes; would Acker have been content with his short and not been tempted to tease it out into a feature.

Nonetheless 9 heralds the new, exciting and manifest talent of Acker into the fantastical world of animation. His painstaking aesthetic puts him into the company of Henry Selick (Coraline) and of course Tim Burton (Corpse Bride). And with such promise, one can only hope Acker continues to develop his potential. 

We have 10 double passes to give away, courtesy of Nixco. Just email your name and details to hello@concreteplayground.com.au